Rapid Prototyping Services
SLS Nylon, SLA Resin, FDM & CNC
Accelerate your development cycle from 3D CAD model to precision physical parts in days. Solidus 3D delivers high-resolution SLA resin, durable SLS/MJF nylon, industrial FDM, and precision CNC prototypes backed by automated DFM checks and mutual NDA on request.
Complete Rapid Prototyping Technologies Under One Roof
From early visual mockups to load-bearing functional prototypes and short-run bridge parts, we match your project to the optimal additive or subtractive process.
SLS & MJF Nylon 3D Printing
Powder-bed fusion requiring zero support structures. Exceptional for intricate internal channels, living hinges, snap-fit enclosures, and load-bearing brackets with isotropic mechanical properties.
SLA & DLP Resin Printing
Photopolymer vat polymerization creating injection-mold-smooth surfaces with razor-sharp micro-features. Ideal for consumer electronics ergonomics, medical devices, and presentation-grade prototypes.
Industrial FDM 3D Printing
Production extrusion in robust thermoplastics (ABS, ASA, PETG, Polycarbonate, Ultem). Ideal for large-format concept mockups, jigs, and assembly fixtures requiring low cost per cubic centimeter.
Rapid CNC Machining
3-axis and 5-axis CNC milling and turning from solid billets of Aluminum 6061/7075, Stainless Steel, Delrin, and Brass. Tolerances down to ±0.02 mm with full CMM inspection reports.
Vacuum Casting & Bridge Tooling
Silicone molds replicated from master patterns. Cost-effectively produces 10 to 100 parts with genuine production-grade polyurethane resins without expensive steel tooling.
DFM & Pre-Build Engineering Review
Every file receives a complimentary Design for Manufacturability (DFM) review. We verify minimum wall thickness, draft angles, support contact areas, and orientation before manufacturing begins.
Engineering Standard
Why Our Prototypes Are Production-Grade From Day One
Most online 3D printing services automatically push raw CAD models straight to machines without checking geometry, resulting in warped walls, snapped clips, and costly delays. Our manufacturing engineers review your part against its functional operating environment before any build cycle starts.
- Automated and human DFM review completed prior to machine setup
- Calibrated tolerances from ±0.05 mm in SLA resin to ±0.02 mm in CNC
- Wide engineering materials catalog: PA12, ABS, Polycarbonate, Ultem, and Aluminum
- Strict mutual NDA signed before any CAD files or drawings are shared
- Fast production dispatch in 24–48 hours with international tracked courier delivery
From 3D CAD File to Physical Prototype in 4 Steps
A disciplined, structured digital workflow removes uncertainty and delivers production-quality parts promptly.
CAD Upload & DFM Review
Upload your STEP, STL, or SolidWorks file. Our engineers analyze wall thicknesses, draft angles, and print orientation under NDA.
Material & Tech Selection
We recommend the optimal material and fabrication technology based on mechanical stress, temperature requirements, and cosmetics.
Calibrated Precision Build
Parts are manufactured on industrial-grade calibrated machines, followed by de-powdering, UV curing, bead blasting, or custom coating.
Inspection & Courier Dispatch
Every critical dimension is verified against your CAD specification. Parts are carefully packed and dispatched via express tracked courier worldwide.
Rapid Prototyping Fabrication Tiers
Every project is engineered to your exact volume, tolerance, and material requirements. Select your preferred tier below to get your exact cost through our instant quote portal.
Fast FDM parts for packaging fit, hand feel, and early proof-of-concept mockups.
- PLA, Tough PLA, Standard ABS
- Dispatched in 24–48 hours
- Standard layer resolution
- Support cleanup included
Ultra-smooth SLA resin prototypes for industrial design reviews and ergonomics testing.
- Tough Resin, Clear, ABS-like
- 25 – 50 μm layer height
- Dispatched in 24–48 hours
- UV post-cured & finished
Isotropic SLS/MJF Nylon prototypes built for snap-fit testing, fluid flow, and structural loads.
- PA12 Nylon, Glass-filled, TPU
- Zero support marks • isotropic
- Media-blasted / dyed black
- Production-grade durability
CNC milled billets or cast urethane batches (10–100 pcs) for full production verification.
- Aluminum 6061, Delrin, SS304
- Tolerances to ±0.02 mm
- Anodized, brushed, or textured
- Full dimensional inspection report
Process Selection & Comparison Matrix
Technical reference table to help you select the ideal fabrication process for your prototype's functional requirements.
| Technology | Primary Strengths | Typical Tolerance | Min Wall Thickness | Surface Finish | Dispatch Lead Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SLS / MJF (PA12) | Durable, complex geometry, functional snap-fits | ±0.15 mm | 0.8 mm | Matte, grainy (vapor smoothable) | 24 – 48 hours |
| SLA & DLP Resin | High surface smoothness, fine details, optical clarity | ±0.05 mm | 0.6 mm | Smooth, gloss or matte | 24 – 48 hours |
| Industrial FDM | Cost effective, large components, durable thermoplastics | ±0.20 mm | 1.2 mm | Visible layer lines | 24 – 48 hours |
| Rapid CNC Machining | Actual engineering metals/plastics, high stiffness | ±0.02 mm | 0.5 mm | Machined, bead blasted, anodized | 3 – 5 days |
| Vacuum Casting | Low-cost batches (10–100 pcs), production look & feel | ±0.20 mm | 1.0 mm | Molded finish, custom textures & tints | 5 – 8 days |
Track Record
Thousands of Functional Prototypes Delivered Across 15 Countries
From early form-fit mockups to bridge manufacturing runs — our calibrated machines and DFM scrutiny ensure physical parts match your CAD geometry with complete fidelity.
What We Prototype — Common Project Applications
We support mechanical, consumer electronics, medical device, and industrial equipment teams with precision rapid prototyping.
Mechanical Part Validation
Verify living hinges, clip closures, interlocks, and tight assembly tolerances before opening expensive injection molds.
Ergonomic Housings & Enclosures
Hand-held devices, wearables, audio gear, and IoT enclosures with premium surface finishes and precision button travel.
Thermal & Load-Bearing Components
Impellers, fluid manifolds, drone arms, and brackets 3D printed in glass-filled nylon, carbon fiber composites, or CNC aluminum.
Low-Volume Production (10–100 pcs)
Urethane vacuum casting and rapid additive runs to support beta testing, investor demonstrations, and early market entry.
Frequently Asked Questions — Rapid Prototyping
Common technical and commercial questions about our rapid prototyping and 3D printing capabilities.
How much do rapid prototyping services cost?
Rapid prototyping costs vary based on volume, material choice, and fabrication technology. Low-cost FDM concept parts start at $15–$45 per part. High-resolution visual prototypes in SLA resin range from $35–$95. Production-grade functional parts in SLS or MJF PA12 nylon start around $55–$180, while precision CNC metal components start from $120+. We provide transparent fixed-price quotes within 2 hours of file receipt.
What is the typical turnaround time for rapid prototypes?
Most 3D printed rapid prototypes (FDM, SLA, SLS) are manufactured, inspected, and dispatched within 24 to 48 hours. Complex assemblies, specialty post-curing, painted finishes, or CNC machined metal components typically ship within 3 to 5 business days. International express courier delivery is available with full tracking to the US, UK, UAE, and Australia.
Which rapid prototyping process is right for my project?
For early packaging checks and physical form verification on a budget, FDM is best. If you need flawless cosmetic finish, clear lenses, or ultra-fine details (layer height down to 25 μm), choose SLA resin. For load-bearing mechanical tests, snap-fits, living hinges, or pressurized fluid manifolds, SLS / MJF PA12 nylon is the industry standard. When true metal mechanical performance is required, we use CNC milling.
Can rapid prototypes be used for functional testing?
Yes. Our engineering materials — including PA12 nylon, Carbon Fiber reinforced composites, Polycarbonate, and Ultem 9085 — are specifically selected for mechanical rigidity, thermal resistance, and chemical compatibility. These parts withstand rigorous field testing, drop tests, and cyclic mechanical loads prior to committing to expensive injection mold tooling.
Do you sign an NDA before reviewing proprietary CAD files?
Yes. A mutual Non-Disclosure Agreement is signed with every client prior to sharing technical files or proprietary intellectual property. All internal engineers and manufacturing technicians are bound by strict confidentiality agreements. Read our full NDA policy →
What CAD file formats are accepted for rapid prototyping quotes?
We accept STEP (.step, .stp), IGES (.igs), STL, OBJ, native SolidWorks (.sldprt, .sldasm), DXF, and DWG. For 3D printing, high-fidelity STEP or binary STL files are preferred to preserve curved surfaces and feature precision.
Ready to Build Your Functional Prototype?
Upload your 3D CAD files now for an engineering DFM review and transparent quote within 2 hours. Protected under mutual NDA.
